The best gifts for someone undergoing radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is the lesser talked about cancer therapy. Is this because it is deemed slightly less invasive due to the perceived lack of physical effects? Or is it because it can often be thought of as the last stretch of treatment and therefore the end of the road in terms of recovery? Even so radiotherapy can take its toll on you both physically and mentally.

Radiotherapy causes side effects because it affects healthy tissue as well as cancer cells. Healthy tissue is better able to recover than cancer cells, but may be damaged by the radiation in the short or long term. Although most side effects are temporary, some may be permanent and some can appear months or even years after treatment finishes.

But for most it is still hours of time travelling, waiting in hospital, sitting in itchy clinical gowns. A daily reminder that you are unwell and require treatment.

Therefore we have put together a guide of some of the best types of gifts to give someone who is undergoing radiotherapy and more importantly why they would be lovingly received.

Something to soothe the skin – everyone’s skin reacts differently and to varying degrees but one of the more common side effects of radiotherapy is changes to a patient’s skin. Skin may become pinker or darker, more tender, dry or itchy. Therefore a good natural moisturiser makes a wonderful gift to show that you have given thought to what your loved one needs. One of our favourite brands is the Defiant Beauty range, as it comprises of natural, organic and effective skin care products specifically for those going through treatment for cancer. The Defiant Beauty Skin Oil is both luxurious and smells amazing. The oil is 100% natural and organic; and brings instant relief to sore or sensitive skin.

If skin becomes itchy and sore looser fitting clothing provides some comfort. Our beautiful breathable cotton kimonos make a wonderful gift. Spending lots of time in hospital in itchy, clinically-smelling gowns would make anyone feel even worse. So why not make someone feel a little more stylish, comfortable and more like themselves. We can send your gift directly to the hospital or to the recipient’s home beautifully wrapped with a personal hand written message.

Something to help with the boredom - spending long periods of time in hospital either waiting for treatment or appointments can be incredibly boring. Gifts that help fight boredom are really welcomed. Craft kits and adult colouring books can help pass the time and if they have a relative or close friend visiting daily or travelling with them to hospital why not give something they can do together such as a puzzle book to provide a welcome distraction from all things medical.

Something to relieve horrible symptoms - Queasy Drops are not an obvious choice but a really thoughtful gift that shows you are acknowledging how they might be feeling. Some people feel sick during, or for a short time after, radiotherapy treatment sessions. Others have experienced sort throats especially if the radiotherapy is being applied to neck or chest area. Developed by health care professionals Queasy Drops and Queasy Pops have been specially produced to provide relieve from nausea brought on by treatment. They come in a variety of fruity and fresh flavours and make a unique gift on their own or as part of a larger gift package.

Something to help with the tiredness - fatigue is a very common side effect of cancer treatment. It may start or become worse after radiotherapy has finished. This coupled with travelling to and from hospital and regular appointments, it is no wonder this is one of the most commonly reported side effects. Not Another Bunch Of Flowers has a wide selection of handpicked pampering gifts that help to ease the stress and tiredness associated with feeling unwell. We especially like our Beefayre Bee Calm Body and Bath Set. Scented with essential oils of geranium, lavender and ylang, ylang to create tranquillity and harmony and to help promote relaxing sleep. Or the Green and Spring Relaxing Hamper which contains natural pampering treats to help encourage rest and relaxation. A wonderful luxurious set of pampering treats.